Understanding the Origins of the 25th of December: History, Belief, and Interfaith Perspectives

As we begin this week’s blog, it’s helpful to rewind the clock and revisit the earliest historical and religious accounts surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. While Christmas is universally fixed on 25 December, the actual date of Jesus’ birth remains unknown. Over time, tradition rather than historical certainty solidified this day as a sacred celebration.

How December 25 became associated with Jesus’ Birth

Though widely accepted today, the choice of 25 December developed centuries after Jesus’ lifetime. Historical attribution often points to St. Francis of Assisi, who, in 1222, reinforced the spiritual symbolism of the date and helped make the nativity imagery more tangible to Christian communities.

The classic picture of the birth—a manger, hay, a donkey, and a guiding star—formed the basis of what we now know as the nativity scene. However, scholars have long debated the astronomical accuracy of the famous star of Bethlehem.

The Magi and Historical Questions

The visit of the Magi, sometimes considered Persians or Babylonians, remains another point of debate. Whether these events occurred exactly as described or were shaped through tradition, the story’s meaning is rooted in Christian scripture, including passages such as John 3:16–17.

Even if some elements of the nativity narrative were stylized or symbolically enhanced over centuries, Christians worldwide embrace it as a celebration of joy, hope, and divine love — not a story diminished by historical uncertainty.

Global Traditions: From the Vatican to the Unusual

While the Vatican remains known for its deeply moving and spiritually rich Christmas celebrations, other nations express the season through rituals that may seem unusual or even “bizarre” to outsiders. Yet these customs have become beloved cultural identities, enriching the global tapestry of Christmas traditions.

The Status of Jesus (Isa) in Islam

Stepping into interfaith perspectives, understanding the status of Jesus in Islam provides meaningful insight into how different religions perceive this season.

1. Jesus as a Prophet

In Islam, Jesus (Isa) is a highly honoured prophet sent by Allah to guide the Children of Israel. He is mentioned with great reverence in the Qur’an as Isa ibn Maryam—Jesus, son of Mary.

2. The Virgin Birth

Islam affirms the miraculous virgin birth. Surah Maryam offers a detailed account of Maryam’s purity and Jesus’ miraculous entry into the world. While divine intervention is emphasized, Islam does not consider Jesus divine.

3. Rejection of Divinity

Unlike Christianity, which celebrates Jesus as the Son of God, Islam views him as a human prophet who performed miracles through Allah’s permission.

4. His Mission

Muslims believe Jesus came to reaffirm monotheism — the core message brought by prophets before him. He is acknowledged as the Messiah, but not as a divine being.

Christmas Through an Islamic Lens

Because Islamic teachings differ on the divinity of Jesus, Christmas is typically seen through a theological and cultural lens rather than a religious observance. However, values such as respect, reverence for prophets, and acknowledgment of Jesus’ spiritual role remain strong within Islam.

A Shared Message of Peace

In conclusion, despite differing beliefs, the themes of peace, honesty, charity, and faith unite people of all religions during this time of year. Whether celebrated as the birth of Christ, honoured through cultural tradition, or simply recognized as a season of goodwill, this period continues to inspire humanity toward unity and compassion.